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Cuts at SOESD impacts Butte Falls

Butte Falls School District held their first budget meeting on May 9. Dennis Burg was elected to chair the committee. The only discussion noted in their minutes was a question about restrictions on $46,252 in state funds. Supt. Courtney said funds could only be used to avoid cutting school days, reduce class size or to improve instruction.

Another budget meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 23.Following the budget meeting, the school board held their regular meeting.

New ethernet lines are being installed by CenturyLink which accounts for a large payment to them. It is partially funded by a grant.

Dr. Courtney said the SOESD has cut their school improvement department due to budget constraints. This means Butte Falls will need to look for help elsewhere. Dr. Courtney said he is working with Prospect and SOESD to apply for a $250,000 technology grant, which would be for K-8.

Future use of the now defunct fish hatchery is being investigated by the school and the city. The sheriff’s SAR might also be interested in some of the facility. A BLM representative said Title II money might be available to help with some of the expense. There are a number of issues that would need to be resolved to make the facility useful for any of the groups.

The kitchen at The Landing is almost finished. The renovation has been done with a $5,000 grant.

Some policy changes were approved and there was a report on a Charter School Workshop. Susan Inman from Oregon Dept. of Education said grant money should be available this fall. The next charter board meeting is May 25.

Contracts for administrative and confidential employees will be discussed at a meeting May 23 following the budget meeting. An executive session will be scheduled according to a draft copy of the minutes. By Nancy LeonardOf the Independent